Simple Signposting to Better Health and Wellbeing
Hull
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
Register for priority service from your energy supplier
You might be able to get extra support from your energy supplier by signing up to the priority services register if you:
- are disabled or seriously ill
- are recovering from an injury
- have mental health problems
- don’t speak or read English well
- have children under 5, or are pregnant
- have reached your state pension age
- are in a vulnerable situation
Benefits of priority service can include free energy saving advice. A password protection scheme to protect you from cold-callers. Your meter moved free of charge if it’s hard for you to use or read. Bills sent to a relative, carer or friend to help you check them. You might also get advance notice if your supply is going to be interrupted, priority re-connection if your supply is interrupted. You may also get annual gas safety checks. Find out more on the Ofgem priority services register website.
To find out if you’re eligible to join the priority service register, speak to your energy supplier.
If you don't know who your current gas and electricity supplier is, this can be checked by contacting:
- For Gas - Meter Point Reference Line - 0870 6081524
- For Electricity - Northern Powergrid - 0845 0707172
Energy suppliers priority service
Apply for energy bill discounts and benefits
See if you are be eligible for three heating related benefits:
- £140 discount on your energy bills with the Warm Home Discount Scheme.
This should be paid direct to you if you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit. Energy suppliers may also offer this discount to other people who receive certain benefits, are on a low income, or are elderly. To find out if you qualify you contact your energy supplier directly. - £250 and £600 towards your energy bills with the Winter Fuel Payment. The amount you get includes a ‘Pensioner Cost of Living Payment’. This is between £150 and £300.
- Extra help if temperatures fall below a certain level with the Cold Weather Payment.
Struggling to pay for your gas and electricity?
The price of gas and electricity has increased greatly over recent weeks. If you are worrying about what to do, did you know that there is support available to help you during this time?
You can contact your supplier, to discuss ways to help pay what you may owe. This should be made affordable to you based on your budget. Your energy supplier may have support funds available.
British Gas - British Gas Energy Trust
- They offer a number of schemes to help people who are in arrears. You do not need to be a British Gas customer to apply.
Octopus Energy - Octo Assist Fund
- To apply you would need to be an Octopus Energy customer and are currently struggling with your bills.
OVO - OVO Energy Fund
- You have to either be an existing OVO customer or previous customer. This is designed for people in debt of over £150 and unable to pay their bills
Scottish Power - Scottish Power Hardship Fund
- If you are an existing customer of Scottish Power and having difficulties paying your bills you may be able to get additional support.
National Energy Action - NEA – 0800 3047159 Monday to Friday 10am to 12pm.
- A charity who specialise in assisting people with help with energy debt. Giving benefits advice and making the most of your income. Support with gas and electricity accounts including fuel debt and switching suppliers and helping with energy efficiency. They can also help you apply for trust fund money, Water rates, Warm Home Discount and Priority Services Register details.
If you need extra financial support, you can contact:
Money Advice Service - 0800 1387777
National Debtline - 0808 8084000
Citizens Advice - 0808 2231133
Step Change - 0800 1381111
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Preparing for Colder Weather
- From keeping your house warm to protecting yourself from common ailments, find out how to stay healthy this winter on NHS Choices.
- Tips for staying warm and well this winter
The UK Health Security Agency has advice on staying well in the cold weather, covering issues such as financial help, healthy lifestyle, flu jabs and heating.
- Cold Weather Alerts will keep you safe and well this winter by keeping you informed
The Cold Weather Alert operates in England from the 1 November to 31 March every year, in association with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The alerts give you advanced warning of adverse weather conditions that could have a significant effect on your health and well-being, enabling you to take extra precautions to keep safe and well. Sign up here.
Local Support Services
Hull Warm Homes
The Warm Homes Team provide an impartial fuel poverty advice service for householders aimed at helping households to reduce the costs of keeping warm and well at home.
Tel: 01482 300 300
Website: https://www.hullwarmhomes.org.uk/
Self-care and National Support Services
NATIONAL SUPPORT
Do you think you would benefit from some further support to reduce your drinking to 'lower risk' levels?
- Speak to your GP, a loved one or call Drinkline 0300 1231110 (Mon-Fri 9am - 8pm, weekends 11am - 4pm). The Drinkline service provides free, confidential, accurate and consistent information and advice to callers who are concerned about their own or someone else`s drinking regardless of the caller`s age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity or spirituality
- Cutting back on the booze can be a really effective way to improve your health, boost your energy, lose weight and save money. Any reduction in the amount you drink every week will be beneficial – and with the right help, it's easier than you think. Download the 'Drink Free Days' app to update and track your drink-free days, get simple and practical tips to help you control your drinking, receive reminders and celebrate milestones.
- Get further information from NHS Choices www.nhs.uk
SELF CARE
Further tips on cutting down
Make a plan
Before you start drinking, set a limit on how much you're going to drink.
Set a budget
Only take a fixed amount of money to spend on alcohol.
Let them know
If you let your friends and family know you're cutting down and it's important to you, you could get support from them.
Take it a day at a time
Cut back a little each day. That way, every day you do is a success.
Make it a smaller one
You can still enjoy a drink, but go for smaller sizes. Try bottled beer instead of pints, or a small glass of wine instead of a large one.
Have a lower-strength drink
Cut down the alcohol by swapping strong beers or wines for ones with a lower strength (ABV in %). You'll find this information on the bottle.
Stay hydrated
Have a glass of water before you have alcohol and alternate alcoholic drinks with water or a soft drink.
Take a break
Have several drink-free days each week.
Local Support Services
ReNew
ReNew - Hull
Our drug and alcohol services support adults to understand the risks their drug or alcohol use pose to their health and wellbeing, and support them to reduce or stop their use safely.
Tel: 01482 620013
Email: Earlyhelp.hull@cgl.org.uk
Web: www.changegrowlive.org/content/hull-renew
ReFresh
Self-care and National Support Services
National Support Services
Citizens Advice Bureau
Citizens Advice Bureau provides support with welfare benefits, debt management, housing, employment issues, and utility bills and more. They assist with benefit applications, challenges, and housing-related matters such as eviction prevention and tenant rights. Additionally, they offer guidance on debt management, employment rights, and energy efficiency, assisting individuals navigating complex financial and legal challenges.
Tel: 0800 144 8848
Webpages:
Benefits - Benefits - Citizens Advice
Housing - Housing - Citizens Advice
Help with debt - Help with debt - Citizens Advice
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) - Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) - Citizens Advice
Make your home more energy efficient - Make your home more energy efficient - Citizens Advice
Get help with the cost of energy efficiency - Get help with the cost of energy efficiency - Citizens Advice
Government support - GOV.uk
GOV.uk provides financial assistance and support services in the UK. This includes the administration of welfare benefits such as Universal Credit, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, and Disability Living Allowance. The platform offers information and resources for managing finances, understanding pensions, and accessing various government support programs.
Additionally, GOV.uk provides guidance on tax credits, housing benefits, and financial aid for families and individuals in specific circumstances.
Benefits: Benefits - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): You can apply if you have a disability or health condition that affects how much you can work.
Web: Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Apply for Universal Credit: Universal Credit: What Universal Credit is - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Emergency Financial Assistance: Emergency Financial Assistance (publishing.service.gov.uk)
Winter Fuel Payment:
If you were born before 25 September 1957 you could get between £250 and £600 to help you pay your heating bills.
The amount you get includes a ‘Pensioner Cost of Living Payment’. This is between £150 and £300. You’ll get this extra amount in winter 2023 to 2024. This is in addition to any other Cost of Living Payments you get with your benefit or tax credits.
Web: Winter Fuel Payment: Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Department of Work and Pensions (DWP)
DWP is responsible for providing support and services related to welfare, pensions, and employment.
Financial Hardship Support:
In cases of immediate financial hardship, you may be eligible for hardship payments. Speak to the DWP or Contact your local Jobcentre for information on how to apply.
You can usually only get a hardship payment 15 days after your JSA payment was stopped.
You’ll be able to get your hardship payment straight away if you’re considered ‘vulnerable’ by the Jobcentre. This means you or your partner:
- is responsible for a child or young person
- is pregnant, disabled or a carer
- is homeless
- is under 18
- is under 21 and has recently been looked after by the local authority
- has a chronic medical condition
- has a long-term mental impairment - this includes mental health conditions (such as depression), cognitive impairments (such as dementia) and learning disabilities (such as downs syndrome)
You’ll have to show proof, for example a letter from a doctor or a benefit letter.
Benefits: Benefits - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Applying for a Discretionary Housing Payment: Applying for a Discretionary Housing Payment - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
StepChange Debt Charity
StepChange Debt Charity offers free and confidential debt advice, helping individuals create realistic budgets and negotiating with creditors to freeze additional costs. They assist in setting up Debt Management Plans for structured debt repayment. In cases of severe financial distress, StepChange provides insolvency advice. Online tools and resources, including budgeting calculators, are available. The charity emphasises ongoing support and financial education to empower individuals for a secure financial future.
StepChange Debt Charity can provide guidance if the cessation of benefits has led to financial difficulties.
Web: StepChange Debt Charity - Free Expert Debt Advice.
Life, money and budgeting: Your Personal Situation. Debt & Money Advice. StepChange
Coping with the rising cost of living
Are you struggling to pay your energy bills? If you're on a low income, find out if you're entitled to:
One-off payments to support people with the rising cost of energy bills: Coping With The Cost Of Living. Debt Advice. StepChange
Grants and funding to pay for energy bills: Grants And Funding To Pay For Energy Bills. StepChange
Government help with gas and electricity bills: Government Help With Gas & Electricity Bills. StepChange.
National Debtline
National Debtline is a debt advice charity run by the Money Advice Trust. They offer a free and confidential debt advice service. They have helped millions of people with their debts. They'll talk through options and give clear advice on how to take back control.
Tel: 0808 808 4000 or Live webchat
(Between Monday to Friday 9am-8pm and on Saturdays 9.30am-1pm)
Web: Debt advice | Free debt advice | National Debtline
Cost of living hub: Cost of living library | National Debtline
To find out more advice and information on specific topics visit the Fact Sheet Library.
Web: Fact sheet library | National Debtline
The Money Helper Service (Government backed service)
Free and impartial money advice, set up by government:
- Advice and guides to help improve your finances
- Tools and calculators to help keep track and plan ahead
- Support over the phone and online
Tel: 0800 1387777
*Calls are free. We’re committed to providing you with a quality service, so calls may be recorded or monitored for training purposes and to help us develop our services.
Web: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en
Webchat: Got a question? We will point you in the right direction. You can start a Webchat online to talk to us live.
Webchat opening hours:
- Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
- Saturday, 8am to 3pm
- Sunday and Bank Holidays, closed.
WhatsApp: Need help sorting out your debts, have credit questions or want pensions guidance? You can talk to us live on WhatsApp.
- Add +44 77 0134 2744 to your WhatsApp and send us a message.
- For everything else please contact us via Webchat or phone.
Turn2us
Turn2us is a national charity offering information and practical help to people facing financial insecurity.
Apply for a charitable grant: Charitable grants can be given as money, products or services and don't have to be paid back.
Search for charitable grants Or contact Turn2us who can provide free financial advice and support to people in the UK in crisis.
Call the free helpline: 0808 802 2000 (Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5.30pm)
The Trussell Trust
Find your local Trussell Trust food bank, their contact details and opening times.
If you're struggling to afford the essentials or need advice and support you can call one of our free helplines.
Web: Find a Food Bank - The Trussell Trust
No Recourse to Public Funds Network
Other National Support
Mental Health
Please refer to the Mental Wellbeing MECC page for further support.
Web: MECC Link
National Domestic Violence Helpline
The National Domestic Violence Helpline, established in partnership between Women's Aid and Refuge, provides immediate and confidential support to individuals facing domestic abuse in the UK. Those in need can access expert advice, emotional support, and information on available resources, guidance on safety planning, and information about local services, including refuge accommodation.
The free 24 hour helpline: 0800 9995 428
Drugs and Alcohol
For alcohol support please refer to the Alcohol MECC page for further support.
Web: MECC Link
Homelessness
Please refer to the Housing and Homelessness MECC page for further support.
Web: MECC Link
Local Support Services
'Help with the Cost of Living' websites for your Local Authority area are listed below. These provide a valuable source of information on some of more localised support arrangements for where you live.
Local Support Services
Hull
Hull City Council support for Cost of Living
The significant rise in the cost of living is a concern for everyone, and we're doing what we can to offer help and support. Single point of access to a full range of support and advice.
Tel: 01482 300 300
Email: info@hullcc.gov.uk
Web: Cost of Living | Hull City Council
Address: Hull City Council, The Guildhall, Alfred Gelder Street, Hull, HU1 2AA
Financial Advice and Debt Management
Citizens Advice Hull and East Riding
Here at Citizens Advice Hull & East Riding (CAB) we provide free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information on a wide range of subjects. These include debt, money advice, benefits, employment, housing, relationships and family, consumer, travel, tax, health, immigration and discrimination problems.
Tel: 01482 226 859
Email: e-advice@hull-eastridingcab.org.uk
Web: Citizens Advice Hull & East Riding - Citizens Advice (hullandeastridingcab.org.uk)
Address: Hull Office, The Wilson Centre, Alfred Gelder Street, Hull, HU1 2AG
Hull City Council
Dealing with money and debt is an important part of life. If not managed this can cause a lot of stress and unrest. A full range of support is available via Hull City Council and Citizens Advice.
Tel: 01482 300 300
Email: info@hullcc.gov.uk
Web: Help with debt and money | Hull City Council
Address: Hull City Council, The Guildhall, Alfred Gelder Street, Hull, HU1 2AA
Responsible Lenders
Hull and East Yorkshire Credit Union
Our aim is to improve the financial well-being of our member-owners by providing ethical, affordable services that they are happy to continue using and recommending to their family, friends, neighbours and work colleagues. We are here to help our members to afford their lives – not to make profit out of them.
Tel: 01482 778753
Email: info@hullandeycu.co.uk
Web: Hull & East Yorkshire Credit Union (hullandeycu.co.uk)
Address: 38 Brook Street, Hull, HU2 8LA
Beverley Cherry Tree Community Centre
We are an agency for Hull And East Riding Credit Union. Since 1999, Credit Union has provided its members with a safe and handy way to save, access to affordable credit and a range of value for money financial services.
Tel: 01482 871993
Email: manager@ctca.org.uk
Web: Beverley Cherry Tree Community Centre | Advice | East Yorkshire (ctca.org.uk)
Address: Beverley Cherry Tree Community Centre, 117 Cherry Tree Lane, Beverley, East Yorkshire, HU17 0AY
Help with Household Bills
Hull Citizens Advice
Bills are essential in everyday life. The following can provide you with advice and support.
Tel: 01482 300 300
Email: info@hullcc.gov.uk
Web:
Address: Hull City Council, The Guildhall, Alfred Gelder Street, Hull, HU1 2AA
Help with Food
If you're struggling to meet the cost of food, there's a range of support available.
Fare Share
We believe that no good food should go to waste. We redistribute surplus food to charities that turn it into meals. We are doers. We are a community. We change lives.
Tel: 01482 337 999
Email: fshullhumber@fareshare.org.uk
Web: Hull & Humber - FareShare
Address: 6 Bergen Way, Hull, HU7 0YQ
Hull Foodbank
We don’t think anyone in our community should have to face going hungry. That’s why we provide three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to us in crisis. We are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK.
Tel: 01482 224783
Email: admin@hull.foodbank.org.uk
Web: Hull Foodbank | Helping Local People in Crisis
Address: Hull Foodbank Warehouse, 28 Paragon Street, Hull, HU1 3ND
East Yorkshire Foodbank
We don’t think anyone in our community should have to face going hungry. That’s why we provide three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to us in crisis. We are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK.
Tel: 01482 772060
Email: info@eastyorkshirefoodbank.org.uk
Web: East Yorkshire Foodbank | Helping Local People in Crisis
Address: Unit C Waltham House, Riverview Road, Beverley, HU17 8Y
Self-care and National Support Services
National Support Services
Dementia Connect
Dementia Connect, Alzheimer's Society's dementia support service, is free, easy to access, and puts you in touch with the right support. From local help to phone and online advice.
Alzheimer’s Society’s dementia advisers can support you directly by phone or face to face, as well as connect you to a range of local services.
Web: Dementia Connect for healthcare professionals | Alzheimer's Society (alzheimers.org.uk)
Dementia Toolkit
This set of resources is based on research, and the expert experiences of people with dementia and their carers.
Web: Living with Dementia Toolkit
The NHS
It's normal for your memory to be affected by stress, tiredness, certain illnesses and medicines. But if you're becoming increasingly forgetful, particularly if you're over the age of 65, it's a good idea to talk to a GP about the early signs of dementia. Memory loss can be annoying if it happens occasionally, but if it's affecting your daily life, or it's worrying you, or someone you know, you should get help from a GP.
Web: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/diagnosis/
The Alzheimer's Society
Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading dementia charity. We campaign for change, fund research to find a cure and support people living with dementia today.
Web: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/
The dementia guide: Living well after your diagnosis
Caring for a person with dementia: A practical guide
Tel: Dementia Connect Support Line: 0333 150 3456
Other Key links
Dementia UK - Dementia Helpline (support from dementia specialist admiral nurses): 0800 888 6678
Tide - Together In Dementia Everyday: Telephone: 0151 237 2669 Email: carers@tidecarers.org.uk
Carers UK- Making life better for carers: Telephone: 020 7378 4999
Self Care
We can’t change our age or our genes, and there is currently no way we can completely prevent dementia. However, there are some simple steps we can all take to help lower our risk.
Risk factors for cardiovascular disease (like high blood pressure and stroke) are also risk factors for dementia, so what is good for your heart is good for your brain. Looking after your health, cutting out smoking and being physically active on a regular basis will help lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. It’s likely you’ll be lowering your risk of dementia too, particularly vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
For good heart health:
- don’t smoke
- keep cholesterol and blood pressure under control
- be active and exercise regularly
- maintain a healthy weight
- eat a healthy balanced diet
- drink fewer than 14 units of alcohol per week.
Web: https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/dementia-information/reducing-the-risk/
Herbert Protocol
The Herbert Protocol is a national scheme that encourages carers, family and friends to provide and put together useful information, which can then be used in the event of a vulnerable person going missing.
Carers and / or relatives and friends can complete a form in advance, including important information about the missing individual such as the contact numbers, medication needed, locations the person was last seen and so forth also a photograph can be provided.
West Yorkshire Police - The Herbert Protocol Missing Person Incident Form | West Yorkshire Police - For patients known to wander
South Yorkshire Police - Herbert Protocol - SYP (southyorks.police.uk)
North Yorkshire Police - People with dementia at risk of going missing (Herbert Protocol) | North Yorkshire Police
Humberside Police - The Herbert Protocol | Humberside Police
Please see below for more information and contact details in your local area.
Local Support Services
Alzheimer’s Society
Alzheimer’s Society provide information, advice and support to anyone affected by dementia. Whether you are worried about your memory, living with dementia or caring for someone with dementia we can support you.
We also have informal groups across the area for people affected by dementia and the Carers Information and Support Programme, which is specifically for carers – for more details about these please contact the local service.
Tel: 01482 211255
Email: hulleastriding@alzheimers.org.uk
Hull City Council Support for Carers
As well as involving you as a carer in the planning of support for the person you care for, we will make sure you can access the information and advice you need and offer you an assessment of your needs. You may also be eligible for support services in your own right if your caring role is having a significant impact on your life.
Tel: 01482 300 300
Web: Home (connecttosupport.org)
Email: socialservices@hullcc.gov.uk
Address: Hull City Council, HU1 2AA
Whether you have dementia, or you care for someone who has dementia, we are here to help you and guide you through your journey.
Tel: 07821519212
Web: Butterflies - Memory Loss Support Group
Email: info@butterflies.org.uk
Address: 3rd Floor, Stonefield House, 16-20 King Edward St, Hull HU1 3SS
North Yorkshire Police - Herbert Protocol
The Herbert Protocol is an initiative introduced by West Yorkshire Police and other agencies which encourages carers to compile useful information which could be used in the event of a vulnerable person going missing.
Carers, family members and friends can complete, in advance, a form recording all vital details, such as medication required, mobile numbers, places previously located, a photograph etc. In the event of your family member or friend going missing, the form can be easily sent or handed to the police to reduce the time taken in gathering this information.
Web: Dementia and the Herbert Protocol - North Yorkshire Police | North Yorkshire Police
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
There is a wealth of information and ways to prevent falls on the following websites
- Saga - Discover ways to stay fit at https://www.saga.co.uk/magazine/health-wellbeing/wellbeing/falls-guide
- Age Uk - Information on falls prevention, exercise classes and handyman services in some areas. Call free on 0800 169 6565 or see https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/fitness/falls-prevention/
- The effective assessment of an individual’s risk of a fall would be a multifactorial intervention considering falls history, visual impairment etc. This assessment would enable the referral of an individual to effective interventions targeted at specific risk factors
- Your GP may carry out some simple tests to check your balance. They can also review any medicines you're taking, in case their side effects may increase your risk of falling. Your GP may also recommend:
- having a sight test if you're having problems with your vision, even if you already wear glasses
- having an electrocardiogram (ECG) and checking your blood pressure while lying and standing
- requesting a home hazard assessment, where a healthcare professional visits your home to identify potential hazards and offer
- advice doing exercises to improve your strength and balance (try some exercises for older people)
- NHS Choices - Find this leaflet and other resources at https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/keep-your-bones-strong-over-65/
Local Support Services
Hull Falls Prevention Service
The Hull Fall Prevention Service provides a multi-disciplinary health assessment aimed at identifying reasons for falls and providing intervention plans which focus on minimising risks of further falls. The interventions that follow are jointly agreed between the service and the client. The service can be accessed via a single point of contact. Clients registered with a Hull GP can access this service.
Tel: 01482 247111
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
NHS Better Health - Lose Weight
Lose weight - Better Health - NHS (www.nhs.uk) – information and advice, and links to offers from approved partners
NHS Weight Loss Plan app, a 12-week programme following NHS advice on losing weight safely. Available from the App Store and Google Play. To find out more you could watch our app demo
Healthy Steps email programme:
Healthy Steps is a budget-conscious email programme designed to encourage families to take steps to improve their health and wellbeing. It provides regular reinforcement and feedback to help families set and achieve goals. Particular focus on lower income families with children aged 5-11.
The programme invites families/parents/carers to complete a quiz, leading to a recommendation of the best NHS approved health options for your family. There are currently three on offer: sugar reduction, 5 A Day or planned cooking. Those who sign up will get eight weekly emails with hints and tips on their chosen theme, as well as weekly challenges. Built-in feedback loops means that they will also be provided reinforcement and encouragement after set-backs to help them in their journey through Healthy Steps.
Local Support Services
For local opportunities, online tools and self help resources (plus information about the Weightwise service for the very overweight), please click on the link below:
http://www.hull.gov.uk/health-and-wellbeing/childrens-health/healthy-weight
Self-care and National Support Services
If you think the person you are concerned about is in immediate danger or needs urgent care, please call 999.
Whilst there are some amazing national services available, we recommend a local first approach. A list of local services can be found at the foot of this text
Street Link is a national service which can be used by members of the public if they see people sleeping rough. Referrals can be made using the hotline (0300 500 0914) or online at Street Link.
This service aims to connect rough sleepers with appropriate services, both statutory and voluntary. Local resources for rough sleepers vary greatly across the country. They can include day centres, contact and assessment teams, soup kitchens and soup runs. Details of such resources can often be obtained by contacting local authorities.
Street assessment teams give rough sleepers information about available health care, night shelters and hostels, and other resources for homeless people. Some hostels and night shelters will only take referrals from a contact and assessment team worker. Some outreach teams will work with people on a long-term basis.
Information on over 9,000 services - hostels, day centres and other advice and support services for homeless people and those at risk of homelessness can be found at: www.homelessuk.org/
Not sure which local authority area to choose? If you know a postcode you can check which local authority area here.
Local Support Services
Hull City Council Housing Options Team
If a person has nowhere to stay, are under threat of homelessness or it is not safe for them to remain in their current property they can ring the Housing Options Team for support:
Tel: 01482 612 040 Monday to Thursday - 9am to 5pm Fridays 9am to 4.30pm.
Tel (out of office hours): 01482 300 304
Web: https://www.hull.gov.uk/housing/homelessness/if-you-become-homeless
Address: The Wilson Centre, Alfred Gelder St, Hull HU1 2AG
Homeless Link - Doorstep of Hull
The service offers accommodation and homelessness support. Support includes help with claiming benefits, budgeting and other daily living skills. Referrals to specialist agencies as necessary, e.g. around drug or alcohol problems. Residents may move from communal units to self contained units during their stay.
The service accepts people aged 16+ and will accept self referral and referrals from any agency.
Tel: 01482 345006
Email: admin@doorstep.org.uk
Web: http://www.doorstep.org.uk/
Address: 151 Fairfax Avenue, Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, HU5 4QZ
Self-care and National Support Services
Give reassurances that there are lots of sources of support
If you are worried that this person is in crisis, please see section for Suicide Prevention
If no immediate risk take the following steps:
Encourage them to ring:
Samaritans - (All age groups)
Tel: 116 123, open 24 hours a day.
Papyrus - (Young people)
Tel: 0800 068 4141
Text: 07860039967
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Lines are open 24 hours every day of the year (Weekends and Bank Holidays included)
SELF CARE
- Encourage the person to contact their GP. Their GP will be able support the person in many ways
- Mind 'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self help resources available
- The NHS have has a range of self-help tools available
- Andy's Man Club provides a weekly talking group, a place for men to come together in a safe environment to talk about issues/problems they be have faced or currently been facing. Meetings take place regularly in different locations across the region, where applicable these can be found in the local support and contact details section.
- For Men -CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) offer accredited, confidential and free support to men anywhere in the UK through a helpline and web and webchat service. They talk through any issue with you and offer support, advice and signposting.
- Quell - Free, safe and anonymous mental wellbeing support for adults across the UK
- Kooth - is your online mental wellbeing community. Access free, safe and anonymous support, for 11-25 year olds
Better Health - Every Mind Matters
Better Health Every Mind Matters website. NHS-assured information & advice on common mental wellbeing concerns: anxiety, stress, low mood & poor sleep
Tips to manage mental wellbeing based on Mind’s ‘5 ways to wellbeing’.
Plus self-help CBT techniques section Life’s challenges - practical tips on dealing with drivers of poor mental health eg coping with money worries and job uncertainty, maintaining healthy relationships and loneliness
The Mind Plan – free, personalised plan. Answer 5 quick questions on how you’ve been feeling over the last 2 weeks and you’ll get recommendations on practical self-care actions that could help. You can customise the plan and get it emailed to you
Free email support programmes – complete the Mind Plan to sign up for regular emails with further tips on building wellbeing actions into everyday life, or go to the “anxiety” page to sign up for a tailored email programme with expert advice and practical tips to help deal with anxiety
Support Services - Adults
Adults can self-refer to Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services. IAPT is a national NHS programme, which offers evidence based psychological therapies or interventions approved by the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). IAPT is primarily for treating people with mild to moderate mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
IAPT treatments are delivered via a stepped care model where patients are initially offered low intensity therapies, such as computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (cCBT) and guided self-help. If these treatments are unsuccessful, or not appropriate for individuals, higher intensity therapies are utilised and include one to one cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT). Please see local support and contact details for further information.
Support Services - Veterans
Veterans Combat Stress is the UK's leading mental health charity for veterans. They offer free, confidential 24-hour support to Service and ex-Service personnel who are experiencing mental health issues, including feeling suicidal.
Tel: 0800 138 1619
Web: https://www.combatstress.org.uk/help-you
Support Services - Perinatal
PANDAS Foundation
The PANDAS Foundation is here to help support and advise any parent who is experiencing a perinatal mental illness. We are also here to inform and guide family members, carers, friends and employers as to how they can support someone who is suffering.
Tel: 0843 2898401 (0900 - 2000 hrs, 7 days per week)
Web: http://www.pandasfoundation.org.uk/
Support Services - Carers
The Carers Trust
It is important that you take care of your own health, even if you are busy looking after someone else's health. Being healthy is not only important for you, but it also helps the person you care after too. The website contains some helpful guides on relationship management and information on self-care and respite care.
Support Services - Children and Young People
Children and Young People can contact the 'The Mix which is a leading support service that can help young people to take on any challenge they are facing - from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs.
- Tel: 0808 808 4994 (Freephone)
- Web: http://www.themix.org.uk/
For Parents
YoungMinds run a free, confidential parents helpline, which parents/careers can call if they are worried about how a child or young person is feeling or behaving. They also run a group called Parents Say, for parents whose children are accessing Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.
Web: https://youngminds.org.uk/
Talk about the Five Ways to Wellbeing. The mental health equivalent to the dietary advice to have ‘5 a day’ fruit and vegetables for physical health.
1. Connect - With the people around you. With family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. At home, work, school or in your local community.
- As being well connected is good for your mental wellbeing… Is there anything you could be doing more of?
- Can you think of connections that you would like to make or remake?
2. Be Active - Go for a walk or run. Step outside. Cycle. Play a game. Garden. Dance. Exercising makes you feel good. Most importantly, discover a physical activity that you enjoy; one that suits your level of mobility and fitness.
- What activities do you engage in on a regular basis? How would I like to develop this?
- Are there any minor adjustments you can make in your life that can help you to be more active?
3. Take Notice - Be curious. Catch sight of the beautiful. Remark on the unusual. Notice the changing seasons. Savour the moment, whether you are on a train, eating lunch or talking to friends.
- How can you practice slowing down and pausing more often?
- What difference will incorporating this into your daily life make?
4. Keep Learning - Try something new. Rediscover an old interest. Sign up for that course. Take on a different responsibility at work. Fix a bike. Learn to play an instrument or how to cook your favourite food. Set a challenge you will enjoy achieving.
- What would you like to learn about? What interests you? What do you value? What would you find useful?
- What do you need to do to make learning something you look forward to?
5. Give - Do something nice for a friend, or a stranger. Thank someone. Smile. Volunteer your time. Join a community group. Look out, as well as in.
- Do you notice what it’s like for you when you give to others?
- What else could you give others that you hadn’t thought of before?
Local Support Services
In an emergency or if someone is in immediate risk of serious harm or injury contact the emergency services. Telephone 999.
Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust - Mental Health Advice and Support Line
Tel: For individuals in crisis: 0800 138 0990 (24hrs/7 days a week)
Lets Talk Hull - (Self-Referral or via GP)
Lets Talk can offer help with low mood, anxiety, sleep problems, stress, worry, low confidence and emotional problems. You can self refer via phone or book your assessment appointment online.
Tel: 01482 247 111 or text TALK to 61825
Web: http://www.letstalkhull.org.uk
Connect Well Hull
Connect Well Hull offers advice and will help you to access support and guidance on a range of issues, including:
- Helping you with physical conditions or emotional difficulties
- Helping you to feel more linked in with your community
- Helping you on issues such as money, benefits or housing
- Helping you to get active and feel better
Tel: 01482 217670
Web: www.connectwellhull.org.uk
or email: enquiries@connectwellhull.org.uk
Hull & East Yorkshire MIND
MIND offers support and information to anyone experiencing mental health difficulties.
Tel: 01482 240133
Andy's Man Club
Andy's Man Club provides a weekly talking group, a place for men to come together in a safe environment to talk about issues/problems they be have faced or currently been facing. Meets Every Monday at 7PM - Except Bank Holidays at the The Airco Business Lounge, Hull, HU3 4DL. http://andysmanclub.co.uk/where-we-meet/
Self-care and National Support Services
Self-Care - Adults
Healthy brushing advice: (Click here for further information)
- brush at least twice daily, last thing at night and at least on one other occasion with a fluoridated toothpaste
- spit out after brushing and do not rinse (Spit, Don’t Rinse!), to maintain fluoride concentration levels
- use fluoridated toothpaste (1,350-1,500ppm fluoride)
Eat Well (See Act section of MECC Link – Healthy Eating)
Quit Smoking (See Act section of MECC Link - Smoking)
Reduce your Alcohol intake (See Act section of MECC Link - Alcohol)
Finding a dentist
Routine dental care:
- The NHS website enables you to find local NHS services, including dentists. You will need to contact the dental practice directly and check whether they are currently accepting NHS patients
Urgent dental care:
- call your dentist: some practices offer appointments at short notice
- if you don't have a dentist, find one using NHS 111
Self-Care Children
Healthy brushing advice: (Click here for further information)
- brush at least twice daily, last thing at night and at least on one other occasion with a fluoridated toothpaste
- spit out after brushing and do not rinse (Spit, Don’t Rinse!), to maintain fluoride concentration levels
- use fluoridated toothpaste:
- Children aged up to 3 years: use a smear of toothpaste containing no less than 1000 parts per million fluoride
- Children aged over 3 years use a pea size amount of fluoride toothpaste containing 1350 -1500 parts per million fluoride
Try and keep within the recommended intake of free sugars which is no more than:
- 19g (5 sugar cubes) per day for 4 to 6 year olds
- 24g (6 sugar cubes) per day for 6 to 10 year olds
- 30g (7 sugar cubes) per day for 11 years and older
Finding a dentist
Routine dental care:
- The NHS website enables you to find local NHS services, including dentists. You will need to contact the dental practice directly and check whether they are currently accepting NHS patients
- Take your child to the dentist when their first teeth come through
- Take your child with you when you visit the dentist, so they may receive preventive dental care
Urgent dental care:
- call your dentist: some practices offer appointments at short notice
- if you don't have a dentist, find one using NHS 111
Local Support Services
Starting Well
The NHS England Starting Well programme is a national programme and Hull is one of the 13 priority areas with the aim to improve access to NHS dental services by children under 5 years old and improve children’s oral health. We know around 39% of children in Hull experience tooth decay with some experiencing toothache, difficulties eating, speaking and socialising, with time off school and nurseries. Children should be taken to the dentist regularly from their first tooth erupting and before their 1st birthday.
Starting Well dental practices are now booking appointments for children under 5 years old. They will receive regular examinations, important advice to help protect your child’s teeth and possible fluoride varnish application. We know that fluoride varnish helps prevent tooth decay. Please do speak to the dental practice to enquire if they will provide regular dental care for other family members.
If you do not have a regular dentist please contact one of the Starting Well practices from the list below -
- 543 Dental Centre, Anlaby Road, Hull Tel – 565488
- Bupa Dental Care, 204 Holderness Road, Hull Tel – 374377
- My Dentist, 239-243 Newland Avenue, Hull Tel – 337070
- My Dentist, 822 Holderness Road, Hull Tel – 783611
- My Dentist, 1133 Hessle High Road, Hull Tel – 347350
- Ayer Dental, 396 Anlaby Road, Hull Tel – 506004
- Church Street Dental, 104 Church Street, Sutton Tel – 799888
- Rejuvadent, 15 Freetown Way, Hull Tel – 223716
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
Get Active - Better Health
The 'Get active - Better Health' - NHS (www.nhs.uk) - website includes access to free online exercise routines you can do at home and offers from approved partners
Active 10 walking app - track your walking habits to increase the number of brisk minutes, which is when the health benefits will be greatest. No Lycra required, and there are lots of benefits of getting out into local green spaces like parks for your mental health too. Available from the App Store and Google Play
Couch to 5k app - easy to follow, flexible programme to get you running 5k in as little as 9 weeks, or longer if you want. Listen to your preferred music player as you run, between motivational messages from your chosen celebrity “coach”. Track your achievements and collect awards as you progress. Available from the App Store and Google Play
How to be more active - Regular physical activity is good for our bodies and minds, but it can be difficult to get started – especially if we're not particularly sporty or have not done any exercise for a while.
Home workout videos - We could all do with a boost to feel better right now – and you don't even need to leave the house to do it! Exercise is great for your mind as well as your body, so clear some space and follow along with our 10-minute home workouts.
Park Run
Why not join a Parkrun in your local area? Did you know that one of the best things about Parkrun and Junior Park run is that you can run, or jog or walk entirely at your own pace. This makes it accessible for those who never could envisage running 2k or 5k and creates an environment where people feel welcome. For those who don’t wish to run, jog or walk there is always the opportunity to volunteer to support your local Parkrun. There is probably a Parkrun local to you…visit http://www.parkrun.org.uk/ for more information.
Local Support Services
Hull Culture and Leisure
We offer first class sport and leisure facilities for both casual and club users. We have swimming pools, multi-purpose sports halls, an athletics stadium and new outdoor tennis court at Costello Stadium, the region’s largest ice rink and the regions only cycle track. We also have outdoor all weather pitches suitable for hockey, football and general training practices.
If you enjoy being outdoors we have over 100 parks, playing fields and playgrounds as well as an aviary, conservatory and animal compound. Hull's parks are beautiful, relaxing spaces which play host to a range of activities and events to be enjoyed by people of all ages, whether it's a picnic, a kick about or a day out with the family.
Web: https://www.hcandl.co.uk/sport-and-leisure-and-parks
Active Humber
Active Humber has information about hundreds of sporting activities, sports clubs and the voluntary and community sector on offer across Hull and the Humber region
Tel: 01482 300 300
Web: http://www.activehumber.co.uk/
Connect Well Hull
Connect Well Hull offers advice and will help you to access support and guidance on a range of issues, including:
- Helping you with physical conditions or emotional difficulties
- Helping you to feel more linked in with your community
- Helping you on issues such as money, benefits or housing
- Helping you to get active and feel better
Tel: 01482 217670
Web: www.connectwellhull.org.uk
or email: enquiries@connectwellhull.org.uk
Parkrun - Hull (Humber Bridge, East Park and Peter Pan Park)
Why not join a Parkrun in Hull? Did you know that one of the best things about Parkrun and Junior Park run is that you can run, or jog or walk entirely at your own pace. This makes it accessible for those who never could envisage running 2k or 5k and creates an environment where people feel welcome. For those who don’t wish to run, jog or walk there is always the opportunity to volunteer to support your local Parkrun. There is probably a Parkrun local to you…visit http://www.parkrun.org.uk/ for more information.
Self-care and National Support Services
Provide the details in the Self-Care section below and offer support to help navigate and access the local services – most services have moved to initial contact via phone due to the pandemic, with some elements accessed online (see specific area for contact details/ websites).
Self-Care
- For information about sexual health, STIs, HIV and contraception visit https://www.sexwise.org.uk/ or https://www.startswithme.org.uk/ or https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/sexual-health/
- The Sexual Health Helpline provides advice and information on all aspects of sexual health, call free on 0300 123 7123 (open from 9am-8pm, Monday-Friday and Saturday-Sunday 11am to 4pm). Calls will be treated with sensitivity and in strict confidence.
This website https://www.contraceptionchoices.org/ is designed to help people decide which method of contraception might suit them best and provides honest information on the advantages and disadvantages of each method.
Local Support Services
Sexual Health Advice - MESMAC
Yorkshire MESMAC provides free confidential sexual health information, advice and services to adults and young people in Hull.
Tel: 01482 291190
Website: https://www.mesmac.co.uk/our-services/hull
Our services include:
- Free condoms and lube
- Free, rapid and confidential HIV/Syphilis testing
- Pregnancy testing
- Chlamydia/gonorrhoea screening
- Information and resources
- Outreach to the community venues
- Outreach and support for commercial sex workers
- Targeted work for most at risk populations (Young people, BME, MSM, CSW)
- Support for individuals and community groups
- Training and group work
- 1:1 support
- Volunteering opportunities
- Support for Schools to deliver RSE
Talk Sexual Health - (For Young People)
If you want a friendly ear about your sexual health, why not try Talk? Talk is a sexual health service exclusively for young people
Tel: 01482 291190
Web: https://talksexualhealth.co.uk/
Conifer House Sexual Health Clinical Service (CHCP)
Conifer provide a range of free and confidential sexual health services from a number of locations across the city for all ages.
Tel: 01482 247111 Tel: (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Website: https://conifersexhealth.co.uk/
Services include family planning and contraception, sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment, emergency contraception, women’s health services, men’s health services.
Self-care and National Support Services
NATIONAL SUPPORT
- Call the free Smokefree National Helpline to speak to a trained, expert adviser on 0300 123 1044. All lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm and Saturday and Sunday 11am to 4pm*
- Better Health quit smoking website which includes information about the benefits of quitting, advice on various quitting aids and a local stop smoking service lookup tool
- NHS Quit Smoking App (Apple) or NHS Quit Smoking App (google/android) - a 28-day programme that provides practical support, encouragement, and tailored clinical advice on your mobile/tablet. Includes a savings calculator so you can see how much money you're saving.
- Get a free Personal Quit Plan Quitting smoking is easier with the right support. Give up for 28 days, and you're 5 times more likely to quit for good – get your plan now!
- You can also speak to your doctor, pharmacy team or local Stop Smoking Service for expert advice on stop smoking medicines.
SELF CARE
- Download the NHS Quit Smoking app from apple or google/android
- Get further information from the National Health Service www.nhs.uk/quit
- Consider using e-cigarettes to stop smoking
- Get daily email support - If you would like some extra support, you can sign up for 28 days of stop smoking advice and tips – delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for email support
- Find your online community - You do not have to do it alone – join others going through the same thing in a friendly and supportive environment. Join the Quit Smoking Support Group on Facebook
Emphasise that quitting will the best thing they will ever do and the NHS Smokefree service can provide the friendly and helpful support they need to quit for good
Local Support Services
Smokefree Hull
SmokeFree Hull offers free advice and support for those looking to start their stop-smoking journey.
All interventions are tailored to need and delivered in community settings by SmokeFree Advisors and Specialist SmokeFree Advisors.
If you live in the city and want support to quit smoking please contact us.
Tel: 01482 977617
Email: hullstopsmoking.info@cgl.org.uk
Web: https://hullstopsmoking.org.uk/
Self-care and National Support Services
Self Care
Although most people need some kind of social contact to maintain good mental health, everyone has different social needs. The person may be someone who is content with a few close friends, or they may need a large group of varied acquaintances to feel satisfied.
State that the simplest way to ease feelings of loneliness can be to try to meet more, or different, people.
- Can they think of anything they are interested in, a class or a group they have heard of, that could help connect them with new people? See Useful contacts for ideas of how to find groups. The Red Cross Connecting Communities team can help you connect with your local community and meet new friends.
- Volunteering is a good way of meeting people. Helping others can also really help improve mental health. See useful contacts for organisations that can help someone find local volunteering opportunities.
- Join an online community. See useful contacts for some suggestions.
Loneliness in Older People
- The Silver Line is the only free confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people, open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Call 0800 470 8090. The Silver Line can also put you in contact with community activities in your local area
- Age UK has a befriending service to support loneliness in later life, this is where a volunteer visits an older person once a week in their own home. There is also telephone befriending Telephone befriending, where a volunteer befriender will phone an older person.
- https://www.reengage.org.uk/ Re-engage works with people aged 75 and over who live alone; those who are especially vulnerable to loneliness. Call our freephone number 0800 716 543 Email info@reengage.org.uk
- NHS Choices has a range of advice on Loneliness including volunteering, continuing education and how to engage with social media and computers.
Loneliness in Younger People
- It is recognised that Loneliness is not something that is exclusive to older adult, indeed many younger adults in particular can experience loneliness and a recent report from the office for national statistics highlighted Britain as the loneliness capital of Europe.
- Whilst on the outside young people can be very well connected on social media but if this replaces face-to-face contact then it can add to a feeling of loneliness. Some people also present an idealised version of themselves online and we expect to have social lives like those portrayed in the media.
- Helplines can reduce loneliness, at least in the short term
- The Samaritans are available around the clock, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This number is FREE to call on 116 123
- Get Connected is a free confidential helpline for young people, where people can seek help with emotional and mental health issues often linked to loneliness.
- There are also support services on websites such as Mind's that can remind you you're not alone.
- It doesn’t really matter who you talk to first. Some ideas would include: a friend, family member, anonymous listening service like Nightline or the Samaritans, student union welfare rep, personal tutor, students support services staff member, counsellor, or doctor. Decide who is the best person for you to talk to first. Be realistic about what each person can offer. If it doesn’t work out, try someone else. Talk to more than one person.
Local Support Services
Connect Well Hull
Provides appointments with Welfare Advisers and Wellbeing Co-ordinators in 27 locations across the city, including GP practices.
Wellbeing co-ordinators can assist you to access support and guidance including groups where you can try something new such as:
- Socialising
- Creative and cultural activities
- Support of management of your physical or emotional health needs
Plus ways to get active, including:
- Healthy living
- Dance
- Gardening
- Walking groups
- Wellbeing
- Exercise groups
Tel: 01482 217670
Web: www.connectwellhull.org.uk
or email: enquiries@connectwellhull.org.uk
Men in Sheds
Men's Sheds are community spaces for men to connect, converse and create, The activities are often similar to those of garden sheds, for groups of men to enjoy together and could be woodworking, cycle repairs, gardening, furniture renovation etc, depending on what the group is interested in. They are great places to spend time with others making social connections and are supportive of people with long term health conditions.
For more information on the location and contact details for Men's Sheds in your local area see: www.meninshedshull.org
Children's Centres
If you want to give your child the best possible start in life, there are a wide range of services at our Children's Centres across Hull that can help.
Our Children's Centres are here to support you and your family and offer the following services:
- Family Support
- Ante/Post Natal care via Midwifery Service
- Play & Activity Sessions
- Healthy Lifestyle Sessions
- Training Courses
- Baby Massage Classes
- Breastfeeding Support
- Support for families of children with SEND
- Stop Smoking Clinics
- FareShare Food Collections
- Us Mums Exercise Sessions for during pregnancy and the postnatal period
- Training, Benefit & Employment Advice – support and funding
- Integrated Day Care & support to access 2 Year Old funding
- Parenting Courses
- Volunteering Opportunities
- Home Safety
To find out more information on your local Children’s Centre, please visit www.hull.gov.uk/childrenscentres
Self-care and National Support Services
National Support Services
NHS Stay well this Winter
Cold weather can be seriously bad for your health. That's why it's important to look after yourself, especially during the winter. If you start to feel unwell, even if it's a cough or a cold, don't wait until it gets more serious. Seek advice from your pharmacist.
Web: https://www.nhs.uk/staywell/
Self Care
Staying Warm
Age UK have produced a great that explains what you can do to get yourself and your home ready for winter, as well as where to go for more information and support. Download the guide from the link below
Eating Well
Make sure you have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day to keep yourself warm, and keep active in the home if you can.
Visit NHS Choices for further ideas and information.
Wear warm clothes
Wrap up warm, inside and out. Layering clothing helps you stay warm as air is trapped between layers, keeping you insulated. Wearing layers of cotton or fleecy clothes is particularly effective.
Wear shoes with a good grip if you need to go outside and wear a hat or head scarf. If possible, stay inside during a cold spell if you have heart or respiratory problems. When indoors, wear well-fitting slippers with fleecy linings to keep your feet warm and to help prevent falls.
To keep warm when inside you could try:
- using a covered hot water bottle or electric blanket (but not at the same time!) to keep warm in bed
- wearing bed socks and warm night clothes
Keeping your home warm
Cold homes have a significant impact on your health. One of the best ways of keeping yourself well during winter is to stay warm.
If you have reduced mobility, are aged 65 or over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease, you should:
- heat your home to at least 18oC
- keep your bedroom at 18oC all night
If you're aged under 65 and healthy, you can safely heat your home to cooler than 18oC as long as you're comfortable.
Reducing fuel bills
See more about affordable warmth
Cold weather benefits
Winter Fuel Payment
If you were born before 25 September 1957 you could get between £250 and £600 to help you pay your heating bills. This is known as a ‘Winter Fuel Payment’.
The amount you get includes a ‘Pensioner Cost of Living Payment’. This is between £150 and £300. You’ll get this extra amount in winter 2023 to 2024. This is in addition to any other Cost of Living Payments you get with your benefit or tax credits.
Web: Winter Fuel Payment: Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Warm Home Discount Scheme
You could get £140 off your electricity bill if you either receive the guarantee credit element of pension credit, or you’re on a low income and meet your energy supplier’s criteria for the scheme.
Cold Weather Payment
You may get a cold weather payment if you’re getting certain benefits. You’ll get a payment if the average temperature in your area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees Celsius or below for 7 consecutive days. You’ll get £25 for each 7 day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March.
Staying Safe
Prevent falls in winter weather
One of the biggest risks from wintry weather is falling, particularly among older adults. Icy conditions make it harder to stay on your feet, and the cold may cause us to limit our activity, which can lead to loss of strength and balance.
- Here are some tips to help prevent falls:
- Wrap up to stay warm but make sure you can see in all directions and move easily and freely.
- Wear sturdy shoes or boots with treads, even if you're just going out to get the newspaper.
- Do some light stretching before you venture out; it will make you physically more able to prevent a fall.
- Avoid walking on surfaces that may be icy if you can. If you can't, slow down, shorten your stride, walk with feet pointed out slightly and knees gently bent to improve grip and balance.
- Snow can hide curbs and uneven surfaces. If you can't see where your foot will land, find another way.
- Replace worn rubber ferrules on walking sticks, walking frames and crutches but remember that brakes on wheeled walkers may not be as effective on icy pavements so avoid unsalted ramps and slopes.
- Dry off shoes, sticks, crutches and walking frames as soon as you get indoors. Wet shoes on dry surfaces are just as dangerous as dry shoes on wet surfaces.
- Carry a cleaning cloth and stop immediately to clean your glasses if they fog up going from outdoors to indoors.
- Ask shops and your local council about options that might make it safer for you when conditions are bad e.g. delivering to your home or collecting the bin from beside your house instead of the end of your drive
- When in doubt, don't risk it. Ask for help if you don't feel safe doing something.
Local Support Services
Are You Ready for Winter
Web: http://www.hullcc.gov.uk/portal/page-_pageid=221,578593&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL
Many of us are not prepared for the impact winter can have on our health and wellbeing. Here are some tips to keep you and your family healthy and happy this winter
Self-care and National Support Services
If you’re worried that someone is at immediate risk of taking their own life then phone 999, you should stay with that person until help arrives. Do not put your own safety at risk by getting physically involved.
If no immediate risk take the following steps:
Encourage them to ring:
Samaritans - (All age groups)
Tel: 116 123, open 24 hours a day.
Papyrus - (Young people)
Tel: 0800 068 4141
Text: 07860039967
Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
Lines are open 24 hours every day of the year (Weekends and Bank Holidays included)
Other options include:
- contact their GP for an emergency appointment or call the out of hours service.
- call their Mental Health worker, if they have one.
- call their social worker or key worker, if they have one
- encourage to re-engage with mental health services if already engaged
- go through their Safety Plan with them
If they don’t want help, don’t push them. Sometimes it’s easy to want to try and fix a person’s problems, or give them advice but try and at least leave a couple of key telephone numbers with them for Samaritans any local support numbers for their area (Crisis teams etc).
It’s usually better for people to make their own decisions. Help them think of all the options, but leave the choice to them.
A person may not be suicidal but you may still be concerned
Encourage them to contact their GP, they will be familiar with their medical history and will be able to direct them appropriately which may include a referral to the Primary Care IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies). IAPT team are skilled in helping people 18 years old and older overcome emotional and mental difficulties like:
• Depression.
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Sleep problems
• Confidence and self-esteem problems
All the local IAPT services are listed under the 'Mental Wellbeing' section of MECC Link and can be found within the 'local support and contact details' section.
SELF CARE
- Hub of Hope - Postcode based directory of services
- Mind 'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self help resources available
- The NHS have has a range of self-help tools available
- Andy's Man Club provides a weekly talking groups, a place for men to come together in a safe environment to talk about issues/problems they be have faced or currently been facing. Meeting take place throughout Yorkshire and the Humber
- A range of self-help techniques is available on the MindWell Leeds website, these include:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Sleep
- Self Harm
- Having a baby
Local Support Services
If you become aware that someone has suicidal thoughts and is about to act on them contact the emergency services. Telephone 999. Stay with that person until help arrives. Do not put your own safety at risk by getting physically involved.
Samaritans Hull Branch
Tel: 01482 323456 (local call charges apply) / 116 123 (this number is free to call)
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Website: https://www.samaritans.org/branches/hull-samaritans
Visit our branch:
75 Spring Bank
Hull
HU3 1AG
Usual hours open to receive callers at the door:
Mon/Tue/Wed: 8am-noon and 7-9pm
Thu/Fri: 7-9pm
Sat/Sun: 8am-noon
Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust - Mental Health Advice and Support Line
Tel: For individuals in crisis: 0800 138 0990 (24hrs/7 days a week)
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
Crisis Team Tel: 01482 335600